LocalReach Somerton & Langport January 2025

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“Fantastic responsive service. It’s the 2nd time I have used central roofing and on both occasions they turned up on time got on with the job and kept us informed on what was being carried out. Went above and beyond and assisted me in issues around insurance. I would recommend this company to anyone with roofing issues.”

GRP • FIBRE GLASS • FLAT ROOFING

We used Central Roofing to take down an old flat roof and install another on our business premises at Knight Brothers Garage. The company was very reliable, they turned up when they said they would, the guys that did the work were very tidy and efficient. The work was completed in the time frame they set…we are more than pleased with the

job.

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Mental health benefits of gardening in winter

Getting out into your garden in the depths of winter is great for your mental health so much so some people call it the ‘Natural Health Service’.

January in the garden can be cold and the days are short but regularly getting into your plot for a few minutes can significantly improve your mood and your energy levels, give you a much-needed boost of vitamin D and improve your outlook as you look forward to a productive gardening year.

A natural antidote to winter

When it is freezing cold outside staying inside in the warmth is tempting, but it was the famous rambler Alfred Wainwright who said, ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing’. So, get wrapped up and head out into your garden

this winter because studies have shown getting outside in the winter can significantly elevate your mood and reduce stress levels. It is a natural antidote to winter! And what better place to go than your garden.

Get Vitamin D – nature’s way

Amongst other things Vitamin D is thought to help prevent the symptoms of depression in winter and as our bodies cannot store it, we need to get regular amounts. Getting outdoors on a crisp, sunny winter’s day is a good way of getting some natural vitamin D.

Increasing happiness

It is official, getting out into your garden can make you feel happier, it does this by taking us away from the stresses and strains of daily life, helps us forget work or family problems and worries, and it gets us out from under the feet of our loved ones. It also connects us to nature and by doing that makes us more mindful.

Battling Blue Monday

‘Blue Monday’ is the third Monday in January, and it is thought of by some people as the most depressing day of the year. But gardeners know that being outside tidying, pruning, digging or planting makes us feel more positive and lowers the chances of depression.

Physical exercise in your garden is good for mental health

One of the best ways of improving your mental health in winter is outdoor exercise. Why not do some physical work in your garden and it will save you gym fees! There are plenty of jobs you could do. Consider doing some digging, or double digging if you are feeling really motivated. Repair and paint outdoor furniture, structures and fences, or get started on a big landscaping project. This will get your blood flowing and exercise your joints and muscles and in turn will give you a feeling of wellbeing and create a forwarding looking outlook as you imagine how your hard work will reap rewards later in the year.

Amongst other things, the very act of gardening in winter makes you look to the future. Almost every job you do in the garden is to help prepare for the coming months, of spring and summer and this will boost your mental health.

Vicky’s

Beauty Box in

Long Sutton:

Expert Beauty Care You Can Trust

Exciting news for Long Sutton! Vicky’s Beauty Box, led by the highly experienced Vicky Dorfman, has opened its doors within Paloma Beauty and Wellness, offering top-tier beauty treatments. With over 35 years of experience in London’s Belgravia and alongside a medical professional for 25 years, Vicky brings a wealth of expertise to her treatments.

Vicky holds a range of advanced qualifications that set her apart. From laser treatments to skin peels and microneedling, and with a Level 7 qualification in anti-wrinkle treatments, fillers, and skin boosters, Vicky ensures every client receives high-quality, professional care.

At Vicky’s Beauty Box, clients can expect a personalised experience with modern treatments designed to leave them feeling refreshed, confident, and looking their best. From rejuvenating skincare to advanced anti-ageing solutions, Vicky combines the latest techniques with a personal touch, all within the welcoming space of Paloma Beauty and Wellness.

Vicky’s Beauty Box is in Long Sutton now. Not all Victoria’s keep secrets – Vicky’s secret is out, and it’s all about bringing top-tier beauty treatments to the heart of the Southwest.

Book your appointment today and discover what makes Vicky’s Beauty Box a standout addition to Southwest’s beauty scene..

Call: 0780 2262 922, Instagram: @vicky_beautybox Paloma Beauty and Wellness - The Byre, Cross Lane, Long Sutton, Langport TA10 9LR.

Instagram: @vicky_beautybox CALL: 0780 2262 922

Watermark Bathrooms and Adaptions, the bathroom fitting experts who have been transforming homes for over a decade

What sets Watermark Bathrooms apart is our unparalleled ability to adapt and customise bathrooms to meet the specific needs of individuals facing challenges in bathing. Our team of highly skilled professionals not only possesses exceptional craftsmanship but also a deep understanding of the diverse needs of their clients. We are also dedicated to making bathrooms accessible and comfortable for individuals with difficulties in bathing, ensuring a safe and relaxing bathing experience.

One of the remarkable aspects of Watermark Bathrooms and is our adaptability, no matter the size or layout of the bathroom, we have a unique talent for maximising space and designing functional layouts. Our attention to detail is truly commendable, ensuring that every inch of the bathroom is utilized efficiently. From installing grab bars and non-slip flooring to designing easy-access showers and walk-in baths, we tailor each project to perfection, providing a safe and stylish bathing solution for everyone.

Furthermore, the professionalism and reliability of Watermark Bathrooms is unparalleled. Our team of experts not only complete projects on time but also communicate effectively throughout the process, ensuring that customers are informed and involved at every step. The quality of our workmanship is evident in the final result – a beautifully designed, accessible bathroom that exceeds expectations.

In a world where customer service often falls short, Watermark Bathrooms and Adaptions stands as a shining example of excellence. Our ability to transform ordinary bathrooms into safe havens of comfort is truly remarkable. If you are looking for a bathroom fitting company that genuinely cares about your needs and delivers outstanding results, look no further than us, you can expect nothing but the best – a bathroom tailored to your needs, designed with expertise, and crafted with care.

local company offering competitively priced and professional solutions to all our customers.

Wetroom and walk-in shower specialists

Fully Qualified and Insured

10 choices of wall panel

Wide range of floor coverings

The Forget-Me-Not Memory Café –Langport and Somerton

Start off the New Year by meeting up with friends, old and new, at the Forget-MeNot Memory Café which is open every Tuesday at Curry Rivel Village Hall from 2:30pm until 4:30pm. We reopen on 7th January and look forward to giving a warm welcome to everyone especially those with memory challenges.

Join us for an enjoyable afternoon of gentle activities followed by tea and cake and rounded off with a singalong with our amazing musician volunteers.

For more information: myforgetmenotcafe.co.uk Chris on 01458 396123 or Adrienne on 252710

Busy Gardeners

Somerton Gardeners Club will be holding their AGM on 8th January at 7:30pm at St Cleers Chapel. Now is the time to renew your subscription, or if you haven’t joined us yet, to sign up to a year of interesting talks, garden visits and a chance to meet other keen gardeners. We have planned our schedule for 2025, so do come and join us to find out more. Membership includes discounts at local garden centres and Overt and Locke as well as monthly meetings. Call Annette Sparks 01458 258947 for details.

Somerton Group of Artists evening with Sarah Bernsen

Sarah is a local artist who also manages 13.75 acres of biodiversity and 2 acres of market garden in Knoll Pit Meadow. She will talk to us about 3 areas of her artwork - collage, layered painting and the use of oil and cold wax, plus the use of recycled materials.

Please note the day: Thursday 9th January, starting 7:30pm at the Parish Rooms, Market Square, Somerton. Members free, visitors welcome - £5 at the door. somertonartists.co.uk or find us on Facebook.

Glowing for Gold

GOLDWORKS is a dazzling new exhibition

opening at ACEarts, Somerton on 11th January, showcasing Toni Davey RWA’s remarkable artistry. This collection celebrates the enchanting joy we feel when surrounded by the radiant glow of gold. Visitors can explore over 40 stunning pieces, including intricate works on paper and captivating sculptures, each meticulously adorned in shimmering gold accents.

Immerse yourself in this visual feast and experience the transformative power of gold through Toni’s masterful creations. The exhibition continues until 1st March. See acearts.co.uk for more info.

Royal Air Forces Association MidSomerset Branch Meeting 13th January

RAFA-MSB will meet on Monday 13th January at 11:00am in Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells, BA5 3DS. A presentation by Graham Mackinlay on his RAF Service and discussion about the Branch’s programme for 2025 plus Lunch & Drinks from the Club Menu & Bar. RAFA-MSB covers BS25, BS26, BS27, BS28, BA4, BA5, BA6, BA16, TA10 & TA11 postal areas. RAFA members, Current and Ex-RAF Personnel & Reserves, Current & ExCommonwealth Air Forces Personnel, Members of the RAF Family & Members of the public that support RAFA aims & purpose welcome. Contact Secretary rafa.midsomerset@gmail.com or 01458 224057

Challenges facing the Commonwealth War Graves Commission around the world

Andy Dayone will talk about the work of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and their Horticulture on Tuesday 14th January. We meet in All Saints Hall in Langport from 7pm onwards to chat and to take part in monthly competitions. Visitors pay a £3 entrance fee while annual membership is £15 or £25 per couple. Refreshments available. Members’ discounts and seed swaps, plant sales. Contact our secretary on 01458 259025 or just turn up for the evening talk. www.sedgemoorgardensclub.co.uk

Commonwealth War Graves Commission looks after 23,000 locations in 150 countries.

Stepping

Stones Bereavment Group. Come for a cuppa and a friendly, understanding chat

We meet every third Wednsday of the month at The Barn, St.Cleers, Polham Lane, Somerton from 10:30am to 12 noon. Our next three meetings are on January 15th, February 19th and March 19th. We are a group of men and women who have been bereaved helping each other through the aftermath with understanding and ideas for coping. The meetings are free and friendly. Phone Denise on 01458 898242 for a chat and more information.

Fun and games at the u3a

Somerton u3a is a thriving organisation with over 50 different interest groups.

A monthly coffee morning is held on the 4th Friday of the month at the Edgar Hall from 10:00am to 12noon, when a speaker is invited, as well as provincial an opportunity to chat and catch up with friends. Our next meeting will be on Friday 24th January with a talk about Owls by Anna Reed, which should prove very interesting.

Calling all clubs, groups, associations, schools & churches in Somerton & Langport/TA11, TA10!

LocalReach Community Magazines are delivered by ROYAL MAIL to 8,988 homes & businesses to ALL of Somerton & Langport/ TA11, TA10 postcode area. We help over 700 small local clubs, groups, associations, schools and churches with FREE OF CHARGE advertising.

Please send us all your news, events and information. We can give you 100 words FREE OF CHARGE each month, plus you can upload a photo. Just fill in the form on the Community Notices page of our web site www.localreach.co.uk/community-notices

• 100% guaranteed monthly delivery by ROYAL MAIL

• 95% of our advertisers rebook every month.

• 50% pages are given free of charge to the community.

For more details contact Annette Sparks on 01458 258947.

Come and Sing Day, Long Sutton Saturday 8th February

The Mid-Wessex Singers and their Musical Director, Alice Dicker invite you to a Come and Sing Day on the 8th February at Long Sutton Village Hall from 9:30am until 5:00pm. Bring your own refreshments, teas and coffees will be provided. The repertoire will have the theme of ‘Nature’ and will include some choruses from The Creation by Haydn. Cost £20. To register interest and for any further information please contact our Secretary, Sheena Smith by e-mail on info@ midwessexsingers.co.uk, through the website at www.midwessexsingers.co.uk or on 07768 704883

Gentle/Seated Pilates Class

A relaxed, friendly and social gentle exercise class for those who are getting back to exercise, recovering from injury/surgery or with underlying health conditions. A 45 minute class with seated or supported exercises to help with strength, stability, balance, co-ordination, flexibility and mobility. All exercises adaped to all ages and bodies. Open to men and women of all ages.

11:45am - 12:30pm, Mondays at Barton St David Village Hall. £6 per session, payable in advance as a block of 5-7 weeks.

Contact Lena for more info: lenadeedance@gmail.com www.lenadeedance.com

Karate and Self Defence Lessons for Everyone

Karate and Self Defence Lessons every Tuesday night at Long Sutton Village Hall. Children 7:00pm to 8:00pm, Adults 7:00pm to 9:00pm. Open 51 weeks per year, only £3.50 per hour. Open to everyone over the age of 5, no upper age limit, including students from other martial arts. Ideal for ladies who want to learn how to protect themselves. Free gradings, free new belt, free grading certificate. Phone or text Terry on 07749849798 or message me on WhatsApp.

The Budget – Tax and Spend?

Rachel Reeves delivered the first Labour Budget for 14 years, containing some very substantial changes to taxation. Below are just some of these:

• Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

It was widely expected that CGT rates would increase, and they have, from 10 and 20% to 18 and 24%. This aligns normal CGT rates with disposals of property subject to CGT.

Disposals of businesses assets qualifying for business asset disposal relief will increase to 14% on 6th April 2025 and further to 18% a year later. Discretionary trusts will pay CGT at 24%.

• Pensions and Inheritance Tax (IHT)

From 6th April 2027, pensions would be included in estate values for IHT. This is a major reversal of policies introduced with pensions freedoms back in 2015.

No IHT will be incurred on pensions passing between spouses, but where pensions pass to unmarried partners, children or other beneficiaries, IHT may be incurred.

This is a complex change, and with varying implications.

• Inheritance Tax (IHT)

Current IHT thresholds, will now be frozen until April 2030. The nil-rate band at £325,000, the residential nil-rate band at £175,000 and the residence nil-rate band taper at £2m.

• Agricultural and Business Property Relief –(IHT)

A major change to these reliefs, from 6th April 2026, the first £1m of agricultural and business property left in an estate will be free from IHT (in addition to standard nil-rate bands) with any value over that now receiving 50% relief, so an IHT rate of 20%.

AIM shares (shares on the Alternative Investment Market) will attract relief at 50% for IHT, reduced from the previous 100% enjoyed.

Sources: QB Partners, Threesixty Services, ONS, Aegon Technical, UK Treasury.

Get in touch with your local expert, Jessica Copp DipPFS on 07583 425566 or jessica.copp@carterdawes.com to discuss your financial arrangements. We specialise in retirement planning, financial planning, financial protection, and inheritance planning.

jessica.copp@carterdawes.com mobile: 07583 425566 website: www.carterdawes.com

The fence that repairs itself

If you scratch or cut Colourfence, the ingenious zinc element in the Zincalume steel reacts with moisture to form a protective barrier to prevent any corrosion with no action needed from you.

STRONG, SECURE & BUILT TO LAST!

Colourfence are transforming gardens across Somerset!

It may do “exactly what it says on the tin” but let’s face it, treating a timber fence can never be called fun! In fact, owning a timber fence isn’t much fun either with costly, time consuming maintenance and repairs almost every year.

Finally, the alternative to timber fencing…our fence goes up and stays up, resisting wind gusts of up to 130mph!

Colourfence fencing solutions are made from innovative Colorbond steel, virtually maintenance free with an occasional wash down with water to keep it looking as good as new - so you never need to pick up that paintbrush again!, Guaranteed not to rot, warp, chip or peel for 25 years.

Available in a variety of heights and colours with or without trellis, our skilled installation team will make short work of transforming your garden.

The best news is the pricing is just as attractive, starting costs are in line with comparable traditional systems but offer the ongoing peace of mind that your investment will continue to save time and money year after year.

For those of us who want a low maintenance garden, Colourfence promises a lifetime of hassle-free enjoyment.

Crossword

Word Search

Across

1 Hoards, gathers supplies (10)

8 Salty, like the sea (5)

9 British language (7)

10 Series of boat races (7)

11 Verbal or written answer (5)

12 Someone who digs the dirt (colloq) (4-5)

15 Take an examination again (5)

17 Rust, weaken something gradually (7)

19 Comforter, rug (7)

20 Appetising (5)

21 Deserting, dumping (10)

Down

2 Item (5)

3 Ambiguous, enigmatic (7)

4 Ready to assemble (building) (13)

5 German light beer (5)

6 Comfy indoor shoe (7)

7 Pronoun (4)

8 Naked (4)

12 Eyelash make-up (7)

13 Interview with a Vampire actor _______ Dunst (7)

14 Refute (4)

15 Red gemstone (4)

16 Chicken _____ Masala, popular Indian dish (5)

18 Citizen Kane actor _____ Welles (5)

Mindbenders

Dentistry Delays Damaging General Health

Since the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns, generationally high numbers of patients have foregone their dental care, being removed from Dentist’s books, seeing their Practices close, or being otherwise unable to book in for their routine appointments.

In that time, we’ve also seen research come out that points to a link between gum disease and heart disease. The Harvard Medical Journal explains that “people with gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) have two to three times the risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular event.”

Whilst using floss (or other interdental brushes), along with a suitable toothbrush, certainly helps in the battle against gum disease, it’s important that monitoring and treatment goes with this, hand in hand.

As well as this, an important factor patients miss through not having their teeth checked, is screening for Oral Cancers. As part of a full and thorough dental examination, clinicians check all of the soft tissues for any evidence of Oral Cancer, as well as any telltale signs of potential future concern.

Over 3000 people in the UK lost their lives to Oral Cancer last year, with nearly 9000 diagnosed, according to the Mouth Cancer Foundation. A frequent and thorough check for the signs and symptoms of this disease is incredibly important, and shouldn’t be missed if possible.

If you’re one of the many people who are struggling to find a gentle, welcoming dentist who is taking on patients currently, and are concerned by the potential for this missed care to affect your general health, get in touch with our team at Ilchester Dental Care today.

With decades of experience amongst our clinicians, we’re perfectly placed to help you get back on track with your Oral Health care, and on the road to the smile you deserve. Our team prides itself on our kind, welcoming and gentle approach to dentistry, and we’d love to bring you on board too. Call today on 01935 840784 to see how we can help.

Glastonbury Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club

We are a group of Veterans & Serving Members of His Majesties Armed Forces from Glastonbury, Wells, Street and surrounding areas, who get together at 08:30 on Wednesday mornings to enjoy a Breakfast with like-minded people at “Mamf’s” Cafe in Glastonbury. For further details of when and where we meet e-mail: GlastonburyAFVBC@ gmail.com or telephone: 07929 087260

Langport Carers Support Group

Langport Carers Group, from Somerset Carers Service and Langport Surgery, is a free, informal gathering for people who regularly offer a helping hand with daily tasks to a friend, family member or loved one. We meet to socialise, share ideas and to talk about our experiences. Professional speakers and service providers offer support and information.

Every fourth Wednesday from 2:00pm in All Saints Hall. Call Cath on 07535279359 before attending for the first time in case of schedule changes.

The Somerset Carers Service Advice Line: 0800 3168600

Email: carers@somersetrcc.org.uk

We are friendly, welcoming, enthusiastic gardeners. Come and join us

We meet on first Wednesday of the month at 7.00pm in West Pennard Village Hall, BA6 8NL. We have informative speakers, and organise exciting trips. We offer annual membership or pay at the door for individual meetings. There are refreshments and a raffle. New members always welcome. For more details: www. westpennardvillagehall.co.uk/gardeningclub or email karenrussell53@icloud.com

New Year Wishes

Long Load Village Hall Committee would like to extend all good wishes for A Happy, Healthy and Peaceful New Year to all the readers and staff of LocalReach Magazine. We hope to see some of you again at our future events.

Craft Club every 2nd Wednesday in each month. For more details contact 07841341813.

`Take Note’ singing group need new members. For more details please contact Julia Harvey 01458 241472

Watch this space for future events in 2025.

The Friday Club - Curry Rivel

Happy New Year to all who have entertained and supported us over the past year.

Come along and enjoy the chance to socialise and enjoy a hot meal.

Anybody looking to do some volunteering pop in and see what we are about and get up to.

For more information contact Veronica on 01458 252791.

Fitness

We are rightly concerned about our physical & mental health, but have you given much thought to your spiritual well-being? Come and meet the only One who can give you true peace of mind.

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7

Low Ham Chapel, near Langport, TA10 9DT. Sundays 11:00am & 6:30pm.

www.lowhamchapel.com

‘Companionship through socialising and sharing experiences with likeminded people’

Street Branch Royal Naval Association covers all areas of Somerset and meets monthly in the Wessex Hotel, 15 High St. Street, Somerset BA16 0EF. Current and ex RN, RM, WRNS, RFA, Reserves and Commonwealth personnel are welcome. Associate membership is also available to relatives of current and former serving personnel, Sea/Marine Cadet staff and civilians. Monthly meetings include a raffle and end with the option of staying for lunch at the hotel.

Contact Chairman Mike Jayes, Tel: 07805 516946

Email: streetrnachair@gmail.com for details of the next meeting.

An Ode for Sight

In celebration of Robert Burns’ life for Burns Night on 25th January and as a tribute to our Scottish optometrist Kirsty, please find alongside a Burns themed poem, optician’s style:

On Burns Night, we gather, the fire aglow, With whisky and haggis, our spirits in tow. Yet amidst all the toasts, there’s a special delight, In the clarity given by spectacles’ sight.

Through lenses we peer, as the poet’s words fly, Each verse more vivid beneath the dark sky. A sharper vision, both near and far, To see the deep truths like a guiding star.

Kirsty the optometrist, with knowledge so bright, Adjusts every prescription, brings the world into light. With care in her hands and a skillful eye, She sharpens our focus, as time passes by.

Like Burns, who looked past the world’s simple mask, Our spectacles guide us to truths we ask. For through every toast and every bright cheer, The clarity of vision makes the night clear.

Through each lens we adjust, your sight refined, Much like the poet who sharpened his mind. So here’s to the words, and to seeing them right, On this Burns Night, with Eyetech in sight!

New earwax removal service launched in Somerton

South West Hearing Care, a leading provider of hearing care solutions with existing clinics in Street and Westbury, is excited to announce the opening of a new ear wax removal service at David Kneebone Opticians in Somerton. This expansion aims to provide convenient and effective ear wax removal services to the local community.

“We’re thrilled to be expanding our services to Somerton,” said Simon Swindells, Audiologist and owner of South West Hearing Care.

“Ear wax buildup is a common issue that can significantly impact hearing health. By offering professional ear wax removal, we aim to improve the quality of life for our patients.”

Many people in the local area have found it increasingly difficult to access ear wax removal services through their GP. Long waiting lists and limited availability have made it challenging to get the necessary care.

“We understand the frustrations people face when trying to access ear wax removal services through their GP,” said Swindells. “We’ve held a hearing care clinic here for some time, but our new ear wax removal service will help provide a timely and effective alternative, ensuring that patients can receive the care they need without unnecessary delays.”

Ear wax buildup can lead to a range of hearing problems, including muffled hearing, discomfort, and even ear infections. South West Hearing Care’s experienced team will utilise safe and gentle techniques, including microsuction and irrigation, to remove troublesome ear wax, ensuring optimal hearing health.

A Good Read

The Porpoise

Mark Haddon’s The Porpoise is a sweeping and imaginative novel that weaves together contemporary narrative with ancient myth. Known for The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Haddon ventures into different territory here with a story that explores trauma, survival, and transformation.

The novel begins with a tragic plane crash, which leaves wealthy Philippe without his beloved wife. Their newborn daughter, Angelica, survives, but her life is overshadowed by Philippe’s controlling and abusive behaviour. In her isolated and troubled existence, Angelica finds herself retreating into the world of her mind— and this is where Haddon’s novel takes an unexpected turn.

The narrative splits between Angelica’s plight and a parallel retelling of the ancient tale of Pericles, Prince of Tyre. The novel then moves between the modern and the mythical, with the story of Pericles embarking on a sea journey that mirrors Angelica’s emotional and psychological journey. As the characters cross between worlds, the boundaries of time and space blur, and Haddon’s lush, often poetic prose gives life to rich landscapes and deep emotional currents.

The Porpoise is an intense, complex novel. Haddon’s storytelling is both adventurous and reflective, drawing readers into a world where myth and reality intersect in fascinating ways, yet the thread of the central story remains strong.

Kick the Moon

Kick the Moon is a bold, thought-provoking teen novel that explores identity, friendship, and the pressures of growing up. It’s set in diverse, modern-day London, and centres around 15-year-old Ilyas Mian, a talented artist and comic book enthusiast who dreams of pursuing his passion for drawing, but his strict, traditional Pakistani father has different expectations for his future.

At school, Ilyas faces another challenge: he’s stuck in a dangerous dynamic with Imran, a volatile bully who expects Ilyas to stay loyal to him no matter what. When Ilyas befriends Kelly, a confident, outspoken classmate who encourages him to follow his dreams, he begins to rethink his relationship with Imran and question the path he’s on. But standing up for himself comes with risks, and Ilyas must navigate the pressures of school, his father’s expectations, and his personal ambitions.

Khan expertly portrays the struggles of young people trying to balance their identities between home and school, with themes of loyalty, masculinity, and the courage to be yourself woven throughout the novel. Ilyas’s journey is heartfelt and inspiring, filled with moments of humour and tension. The book’s authentic voice and relatable characters make it a standout in contemporary young adult fiction.

Somerset Sight Fraud Protection Talk

Somerset Sight recently arranged a talk by Fraud Protection Officer from Avon and Somerset Police to help people to avoid scams. 30 people, all with sight impairment, attended.

Scammers are very clever and wish to panic people into action which they would not normally consider. They use our vulnerabilities, such as your child being in distress to extract money.

For example, “Hi mum it is Susie this is my new number, I have lost my phone, and this is my new number. I need some money to pay the garage who fixed my car, as I have lost my card and need to pay for my car bill. Please could you pay into my friend Louise’s account as I’ve lost my card as well.”

Puzzle Solutions

Stop and think – would your son or daughter normally contact you like this? If unlikely this could be a scam. Take time to consider, at least five minutes. Do not act on impulse. Discuss with two other people before before taking any action. Call your child’s number to check.

“This is very helpful advice; I now feel better equipped should I receive such a text or email”

Somerset Sight will arrange further talks in the New Year, at the many social groups across the county.

Christmas carols with Take Note

Somerton Good Neighbours runs Somerton Memory Cafe which meets twice a month in West Street Church hall. For our November meeting we were lucky to have Take Note come to sing us. Our members had a great time and there was a lot of toe tapping and waving to the music.

The Memory Cafe is run to support members with dementia or memory problems and provides activities, fun and friendship.

We are fully subscribed at present and have a waiting list.

For further information please contact Annette Sparks on 01458 258947.

Somerstock 2025 Announces Line Up

Somerstock, the family friendly music festival in Somerton has announced a great range of live music including Cut Capers, The Britpop Boys and Nick Parker.

The festival opens on the evening of Friday 11th July, followed by a full day of music and family fun on Saturday 12th. On-site parking and camping also available.

Tickets are available online, with the advice to book early to get the cheapest deals.

Go to www.somerstock.co.uk where you can find full details of all the bands and to get your tickets.

Simply Oven Cleaning

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Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.